Your child may seem upset when you arrive or leave but do not restrict your visits as this would make him feel abandoned. If you have to leave, be sure to say goodbye and tell him and the ward sister exactly when you will be back.

For your own good try to get out of the ward during the course of the day for a short break. The nursing staff will understand and encourage this since being in the same surroundings all day when everyone is worried and frightened can be a great strain. Feel free to express your feelings or discuss any problems that arise with the ward sister or perhaps the social worker.

There are no limitations to visiting in children's wards and visits from healthy school friends can be very good for your child's morale. But it can sometimes be tiring and frightening for a sick child if there are too many people in the room at the same time. Many wards have teachers and play specialists, and children who are feeling well enough can attend the hospital school.